Performance remains the Kushaq's strongest selling point. The 1.0-litre TSI (115 hp, 178 Nm) is now paired with either a 6-speed manual or a new 8-speed torque converter automatic, which promises smoother shifts in city traffic. 

The enthusiast-favorite 1.5-litre TSI (150 hp, 250 Nm) stays with its 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG options. A major mechanical upgrade for the 1.5L variants is the addition of disc brakes on all four wheels, significantly improving stopping power. 

The cabin retains its practical layout but feels airier thanks to the new panoramic sunroof (standard on top trims). The driver now gets a 26.03 cm (10.25-inch) fully digital cockpit with turn-by-turn navigation, while the center console houses a 25.6 cm (10.1-inch) touchscreen. 

A standout addition is the segment-first rear seat massage function in higher trims, catering to those who are chauffeur-driven. The tech suite now includes a Google Automotive AI Agent that understands Indian English accents. New dual-tone themes like black-and-beige for the Prestige and black-and-red for the Monte Carlo replace the older grey schemes.

 Features like ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and the two-spoke steering wheel are carried forward.

The "Modern Solid" design language makes the front end look significantly more sophisticated. You get slimmer LED headlights with eyebrow-style DRLs that are now connected by a segmented light bar running through the grille. 

The bumpers have been reshaped with more angular silver accents, while the Monte Carlo trim swaps these for gloss black and adds signature red stripes. The side profile stays familiar but features fresh 16-inch or 17-inch alloy designs. 

The rear is the most changed, featuring a full-width connected LED tail lamp setup, sequential indicators, and illuminated SKODA lettering a first for the brand. With 188mm of ground clearance, it remains perfectly sized for navigating Gurugram’s high speed breakers and tight parking spots.

Skoda has standardized safety even further, offering six airbags across all variants as standard. The 2026 model builds on its 5-star Global NCAP legacy with over 25 active and passive safety features on base trims, expanding to 40 on the top-end. 

New additions include front parking sensors and a more refined Electronic Stability Control (ESC) suite. While there were rumors of Level 2 ADAS, the launch focus is on enhanced structural safety, hill-hold assist, and multi-collision braking

The Kushaq facelift enters a battlefield occupied by the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and the upcoming Tata Sierra. While it may not have as many "gadgets" as the Korean twins, it counters with superior driving dynamics, a new 8-speed gearbox, and a standard sunroof. Its mechanical twin, the Volkswagen Taigun, remains its closest competitor. 

With an expected price range of ₹11–20 lakh, the Kushaq is now a much more complete package for those who want a car that is as safe and fun to drive as it is feature-loaded.